Nicotine is widely considered to be addictive, reducing consumer dependency on the constituent has been a focus of CORESTA regulatory groups in recent years. This study aimed to investigate the impact of NPK fertilizers, incorporating different potassium (K) sources, on nicotine content in K326 tobacco leaves. The research was conducted using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) at three sites (Chunya, Kahama, and Tabora) during the 2023–24 cropping season. Five fertilizer treatments were tested: control (T1), basal standard (T2: 30g N10P18K24 with K sources from KCl and K2SO4, top-dressed with 8g CAN 27%), T3 (30g N11P22K21 from KCl, top-dressed with 8g CAN 27%), T4 (two splits of 15g N11P22K21 from KCl, top-dressed with 8g CAN 27%), and T5 (two splits of N11P22K21 at 10g and 12.5g bi-weekly, without CAN 27%). Seedlings were transplanted into trial plots with 1.2m ridge spacing and 50cm intra-spacing. Basal applications were administered 14 days post-transplant for T2 and T3, and every two weeks for T4, with T5 receiving no CAN 27%. Results indicated that incorporating KCl and K2SO4 with CAN 27% significantly increased nicotine levels (2.66%). In contrast, using KCl alone in NPK fertilizer reduced nicotine levels to 2.02%, but not tobacco leaf yields.
The tomato supply chain is not well depicted, which affects the income share of the farmers, as a result, they face difficulties in accessing food. Therefore, the study investigated the impact of the income share of primary actors on household dietary diversity in the tomato supply chain. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select 800 participants for this study. The data were analysed using a zero-one inflated beta regression model, the Herfindahl-Hirschman index (HHI), and the Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS). The findings revealed that marketers earn the most (84% of total income) in the supply chain. The remaining 16% of the income is split between farmers (15%) and transporters (1%). A larger percentage (63%) of the farmers consumed 3 food groups or fewer. It was further found that income share, along with other socioeconomic characteristics such as gender, age, formal education, farming experience, informal education, the average tomato yield, years of experience in tomato farming, number of working-class farm members, cooperative membership, access to credit service, and processing with various methods, had a significant impact on the probability and intensity of food security. The study indicated that greater revenue among tomato supply chain players enhances their households’ food security.
The concept of social capital formations has received much attention. However, its role in implementing climate change adaptation strategies is rarely discussed. This study investigated the effects of social capital formations on the adopting of climate change adaptation strategies among smallholder farmers in Osun State. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select respondents. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and a multinomial logit model. The predominant climate adaptation methods are early and late planting (73.3%), fallowing (36.3), intercropping (10%), crop rotation (83.3%), irrigation (60%), and crop residue/mulching (7.7%). The social capital formation strategies used by farmers in descending order of predominance were Esusu (90.3%), religious group (88.9%), farmers’ group (86.23%), thrift and credit union (63.9%) and age group association (27.8%). The result of the multinomial logit model reveals that membership in social capital formations has positive and significant effects on the decision of farmers to practice climate change mitigation methods. This study contributes to understanding how social capital, through networks, trust, and shared norms, shapes the adoption of climate change adaptation strategies in Nigeria. It highlights the role of community ties in enhancing knowledge exchange, resource access, and collective action, promoting more effective adaptation to climate impacts.
Gut explant cultures represent fragments of the whole gut section with its mucosa, maintained ex vivo, which closely mirror the key characteristics of the organ in living animals. A major advantage of this model is its preserved polarized and layered structure, which enables essential cell-to-cell interactions. The aim of the study was an establishment of a chicken ileal explant culture to study the pathogenic effect of Salmonella Enteritidis pathogen to assess the compatibility of a chicken ileal explant culture with bacteria. Regarding our results, the hematoxylin and eosin-stained histology sections of a chicken ileum had a normal tissue architecture not only in the control group but also in the infected group. Gene expression analysis shows significant up-regulation of four genes (IL-22, IL-6, TNF-? and CK18), demonstrating the ability of the ileal explant culture to effectively respond to infection. Moreover, measurement of metabolic activity in ileal explants showed that metabolic activity was still relatively high after 4 h of infection, indicating good cell viability of tissue explants outside the body under conditions of high bacterial infection. In conclusion, this novel model may replicate the in vivo environment of the chicken intestine, incorporating all its layers and its ability to study host-pathogen interactions.
Stem borer infestation is a common challenge in rice fields, often managed through synthetic insecticides application, which pose environmental and health risks. A field experiment was conducted at the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute, Regional Station, Rangpur, during the T. Aman (July-November) 2022 and Boro (November-June) 2022–23 seasons to evaluate the efficacy of insecticides, botanicals, and hand sweeping in managing stem borer. The study employed a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications and five treatments: T1=control, T2=tobacco dust, T3=chloropyrips, T4=sweeping and T5=tobacco extract. Chlorpyrifos consistently reduced ‘deadheart’ and ‘whitehead’ symptoms, followed closely by tobacco dust and tobacco extract. Yield analysis revealed that chlorpyrifos resulted in a 13.43% yield increase over the control in T. Aman, while tobacco dust and tobacco extract both showed 10.22% increases. Similar trends were observed in the Boro season, with yield increases of 10.98% (chlorpyrifos), 6.66% (tobacco 30 dust), and 7.99% (tobacco extract). Correlation analysis revealed that higher ‘deadheart’ and ‘whitehead’ symptoms significantly reduced tiller number, panicle number, and grain yield, while filled grains and panicle length increased. Rice plants demonstrated resilience by reallocating resources during the reproductive stage to mitigate yield losses. Tobacco-based treatments offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic insecticides for stem borer management, reducing yield loss and environmental risks.
Biological stressors, such as bacterial, viral, fungal, and nematode illnesses, as well as insect infestations like fruit flies, mites, and aphids, limit the production of Tamarindus indica L. (tamarind), resulting in lower fruit quality and yield. This review examined these issues, emphasizing the symptoms, underlying causes, and practical solutions. A sustainable approach to managing diseases and pests is Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which combines mechanical, chemical, biological, and crop management techniques. While biological controls, such as natural predators, parasitoids, and biopesticides, reduce the need for chemicals, management techniques like crop rotation, intercropping, and sanitation are the cornerstones of these approaches. Sustainable tamarind farming is supported by trimming, trapping, and the cautious use of chemicals. The review highlights the synergistic benefits of integrating various IPM components and offers a thorough description of the connections between diseases, pests, and control strategies. Integrated Pest Management reduces environmental impacts while addressing the complexity of biotic stresses, allowing tamarind orchards to achieve long-term sustainability and productivity. This comprehensive approach underscores the importance of coordinated and adaptive management strategies in addressing the challenges of tamarind farming.
Plant residues are important in the integrated disease management against fusarium head blight (FHB). This study was performed to predict the in situ effects of Atlantis® OD 42 herbicide on the interaction between a biological control fungus (Trichoderma asperelloides Samuels T-92) and the mycotoxigenic pathogen (Fusarium graminearum Schwabe) by in vitro confrontation test. Collectively, Atlantis® OD 42 was found positively effective in pathogen control. Here, the modified confrontation test was applied with new parameters to analyze the detailed effect of Atlantis® OD 42) on the fungus-fungus interactions. The study revealed the negative effect of Atlantis® OD 42 on the pathogen growth and gave a clue to its negative impact on mycotoxin efflux (an important determinant of the pathogen virulence). The effect of herbicide on the biological control of the pathogen was discussed. This is the first introduction of the quantitative confrontation test after its modification.
Gelada (Theropithecus gelada), endemic to Ethiopia, is unique among old-world monkeys, specifically adapted to Afroalpine and sub-Afroalpine grasslands and rocky gorges. Although different studies have investigated its population dynamics and feeding ecologies, the species global population status and behavioral ecology remain understudied. This review synthesizes findings from 13 peer-reviewed studies published between 2009 and 2024 to analyze gelada population dynamics and feeding behaviour. The estimated total population of gelada in Ethiopia is approximately 29,969 individuals, with 62.90% residing in the Simien Mountains National Park. Gelada predominantly inhabits sub-Afroalpine ecosystems (68.1%), followed by forests (28.80%) and Afroalpine ecosystems (3.10%). Most gelada populations (76.32%) are found in protected areas, whereas 23.68% inhabit unprotected regions. It exhibits complex social structures, forming groups from one male units to large communities, with group sizes varying from 7 to 154 individuals on average. Its diet is diverse, consisting of grasses, sedges, forbs, shrubs, roots, tubers, fruits, cereal crops, and invertebrates, which varies based on habitat type. The global gelada population is declining due to multiple threats, highlighting the urgent need for conservation strategies that integrate both protected and unprotected habitats. Strengthening conservation efforts is crucial to ensuring the long-term survival of this endemic primate species.
The primary focus of the current work was to synthesis Ag and Fe3O4 NPs through chemical routes and their varied concentration effect in the germination-seedling growth of Macrotyloma uniflorum (Kulthi bean) and Lens culinaris (Masoor) seeds, respectively. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by various physiochemical techniques (UV-Vis, DLS, FTIR, and FESEM). Four different concentrations of Ag and Fe3O4 NPs were applied on Lens culinaris and Macrotyloma uniflorum and positive influence was noticed for shoot-root length, chlorophyll, protein and starch content. Statistical analysis for every treatment was done with 3 replicates and results were analysed by one-way ANOVA using Minitab Version 16. Further, for getting information on the accumulation of nanoparticles in particular regions of plant body, ICP-OES study was also performed. The distinctive crystals of a black red colour in plant tissue was possible to identify the NPs localization in several seedling segments. Chemically synthesized metal-based nanoparticles have shown better effect on seed germination and have less hazardous impacts on the surrounding environment which make them a better alternative for commercially available agrochemicals.
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of incorporating 5% of beespine (biological bee biomass) into the diet of broiler chickens on the excretion and accumulation of lead (Pb) and overall poultry productivity. A total of 100 Cobb-500 broiler chickens were divided into control and experimental groups. The experimental diet consisted of 95% standard feed and 5% powdered beespine, pre-treated for increased bioavailability. Atomic absorption spectroscopy was used to determine Pb concentration in tissues. The results showed a 22.3 percentage point increase in Pb excretion (P < 0.001) and significant reductions in Pb accumulation in muscle (-47.2%), fat (-40%), and bone tissue (-48%). The survival rate increased by 5 percentage points (P < 0.01). These findings suggest that beespine biomass, due to its sorption and nutritional properties, can be considered a natural feed additive for reducing heavy metal accumulation and improving poultry health and productivity.
With its enormous and significant health benefits, dietary fibre is a crucial component of the global diet. However, its average human food consumption remains lower than recommended. This study investigates the effect of ultrasonication on wheat bran (WB) chemical composition and structure. The WB, sourced from a new wheat variety, "Leningradskaya 6", was subjected to ultrasonic waves with the frequency of 19.3 kHz at 50°C for 10 minutes. The treated and untreated (control) samples were meticulously examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and infrared spectroscopy to discern the changes in their structure. Both samples were analysed for their water-soluble protein concentration, free amino nitrogen (FAN) and cellulose concentration. The results revealed that the cellulose concentration was statistically the same in both samples (20.2 ± 0.013 and 19.8 ± 0.003 g 100g-1 in the control and treated samples, respectively). Water-soluble protein (WSP) and Free Amino Nitrogen (FAN) concentrations were higher in treated samples (1.65 ± 0.07 mg ml-1 < 2.07 ± 0.08 mg ml-1 and 0.116 ± 0.00003 mg ml-1 < 0.132 ± 0.00013 mg ml-1 for WASP and FAN, respectively). Peaks were located from 3429.43 to 599.86 cm-1 for treated WB and from 3367.71 to 528.50 cm-1 for control. The ultrasonic treatment enhanced the structure of the WB fibers manifested by the scanning electron microscope.
The study on genetics of Oryza sativa L. lowland rice for submergence tolerance was carried out, using two most farmer-preferred commercial rice varieties in Nigeria. The experimental design was completely randomized design, having crossing blocks with three replications. Parameters estimated include; broad sense heritability (h2b), genotypic variance, phenotypic variance, additive variance, and narrow-sense heritability (h2n). Moderate to high narrow sense heritability in conjunction with moderate to high expected gain were observed in most of the traits, especially the yield component traits. The results of the generation mean analysis showed significance of at least one out of the four scales (A, B, C & D) for all the traits studied in the two crosses. The six parameters analysis revealed that besides the additive and dominance gene actions, epistatic interaction mechanisms have also contributed to the expressions of the traits studied. However, the relative magnitudes of these effects varied from character to character and cross to cross. The result showed a high magnitude of dominance gene effect with duplicate epistasis were observed for plant height, days to 50% flowering, numbers of panicle, panicle length and grain yield. Hence, the additive genes effect can also be considerable and significant for these traits.
This study examined the effects of different container types and sizes on seedling emergence and growth of Plukenetia conophora Müll.Arg. (African walnut) to optimize nursery production practices. A 3 × 3 factorial experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with three replications. The experiment was carried out at the greenhouse of the School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, Owerri. Seedling emergence, internode length, number of branches, number of leaves, and plant height were assessed at 9, 11, 13, 15, and 17 weeks after planting. The results revealed that container type, container size, and their interaction significantly (p < 0.05) affected seedling growth. Medium-sized plastic containers had the best growth performance, while polythene-based containers were less effective. These findings suggest that plastic containers of medium size can be used to achieve optimizing the nursery production of African walnut seedlings.
This study investigates the socio-economic and demographic factors influencing sour cream consumption in Kosovo. The primary objective is to identify key determinants shaping consumer purchasing behavior and to provide insights for local producers and policymakers. Data were collected from 300 respondents across Kosovo between May and June 2022. Statistical analysis using the Chi-Square test revealed that 63% of respondents buy sour cream with varying frequency. The findings indicate that variables such as age, household income, family size, product quality, origin, brand, and packaging significantly influence purchasing frequency, whereas gender, education level, and price do not show statistically significant effects. Further segmentation through cluster analysis revealed three distinct consumer profiles—practical and moderate, conscious and analytical, and traditional and experience-oriented—each with unique preferences and behavioral traits. These insights offer a robust foundation for developing targeted marketing strategies and evidence-based policies aimed at enhancing consumer satisfaction and strengthening the competitiveness of Kosovo’s dairy sector.
Seeds form the foundation of plant life, underpinning agricultural sustainability. The seed microbiome, a community of microorganisms associated with seeds, influences seed health, germination, and plant growth by serving as the initial inoculum for microbial communities that enhance plant productivity. These microorganisms, including epiphytes and endophytes, promote plant growth through improved nutrient uptake, hormonal modulation, and stress tolerance. The seed microbiome’s diversity and functionality are shaped by vertical and horizontal transmission routes, reflecting dynamic interactions between plants and their environment. Recent advances in sequencing technologies have revealed the microbiome's potential to enhance disease resistance and adaptability to environmental challenges. Utilizing microbial inoculation and biological priming can harness the microbiome’s benefits, reducing chemical inputs while improving crop productivity. These strategies emphasize the microbiome's role in promoting seedling health and shaping plant morphology. Insights into seed microbiota dynamics offer opportunities to bolster crop resilience, address food security, and mitigate climate change impacts through sustainable agricultural practices. Exploring the ecological and functional interactions of seed-associated microorganisms is pivotal for fostering innovative strategies to enhance plant performance and sustainability in agriculture.
Coffea arabica L. var. Cenicafé 1, developed by the National Coffee Research Center of Colombia (Cenicafé), offers improved productivity, quality, and disease resistance, but its processing generates coffee husk, a by-product often considered waste. This study explores the thermo-chemical properties of the husk from this new variety to assess its potential for biofuel production. By utilizing this husk, waste management challenges were addressed while providing a sustainable energy source. Key properties measured include calorific value, ash content, elemental composition, and ash behavior. The calorific value was found to be 18.55 MJ kg-1, higher than many other coffee husks, suggesting strong energy potential. The ash content was notably low at 0.83%, and the minimal presence of nitrogen, sulfur, and chlorine reduces the risk of harmful emissions during combustion. The ash composition also indicates that it can be safely used as fertilizer, promoting a circular economy. Overall, the husk from Cenicafé 1 displays characteristics comparable to wood but with even lower ash content, making it an ideal candidate for biofuel. This study underscores the dual benefits of improving waste management and generating renewable energy from coffee husks, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.
The objective of this study was to reduce the use of synthetic fertilizers on shallot production by application of vermicompost and mycorrhiza. The study was arranged by using a factorial Randomized Completely Block Design. The factors of vermicompost dose viz. 0, 20 and 40 t ha-1, the dose of mycorrhiza viz. 0, 10, and 20 g plant-1 and the dose of synthetic fertilizer based on recommendation dose viz. 100% (138 kg N ha-1, 72 kg P2O5 ha-1 180 kg K2O ha-1), 75% (103 kg N ha-1, 54 kg P2O5 ha-1, 135 kg K2O ha-1) and 50% (69 kg N ha-1, 36 kg P2O5 ha-1, 90 kg K2O ha-1) were tested. The variables observed included the number of bulbs, fresh weight of bulbs and bulbs diameter. All variables were observed at harvest time. The use of 50% synthetic fertilizer along with 40 t ha-1 of vermicompost and 20 g plant-1 of mycorrhiza gained equal number of bulbs, fresh weight of bulbs and diameter of shallot bulbs compared to application of 100% synthetic fertilizer only. Therefore, the reduction of 50% synthetic fertilizer with application of vermicompost and mycorrhiza could support sustainable of agriculture on the production of shallot.
This study examines the effect of incorporating Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae meal into broiler diets on growth performance and carcass traits. Fourteen 4-week-old broiler birds were divided into two groups: one fed a standard commercial finisher feed and the other a BSF larvae meal-formulated feed with 15% BSF larvae powder replacing soybean meal. Over four weeks, body weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and carcass characteristics were evaluated. Broilers fed with the standard feed exhibited slightly higher weight gain (1.21a) compared to those on the BSF-formulated feed (0.94b). Weekly feed intake showed no significant difference (p>0.05) between the two groups, with averages of 1.14 kg and 1.12 kg, respectively. However, the FCR of broilers on standard feed (3.9) was significantly better (p>0.05) than those on the BSF-formulated diet (4.72). These results suggest that while the growth performance of birds fed standard feed was slightly higher. This shows that inclusion of 15% BSF larvae powder in broiler finisher diets had no adverse effects on growth performance or health. This highlights the potential of BSF larvae meal as a sustainable alternative protein source in poultry nutrition.
Narrow-leaved lupine (Lupinus angustifolius) is a high-protein legume crop with significant agricultural potential, yet its cultivation faces challenges in stand establishment under arid conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of growth regulators and priming techniques on lupine seed germination, plant development, and yield under field conditions in North Kazakhstan. The experiment was conducted on the ordinary chernozem soil with low nitrogen and phosphorus content. The climate is sharply continental, with moisture as a limiting factor. The tested lupine variety, Orlovsky Kormovoy, has a low alkaloid content (0.045%) and a vegetation period of 85–90 days. Four treatments were applied: control (dry seeds), hydropriming, treatment with the growth regulator Megamix Seeds, and priming in a Megamix Seeds nutrient solution containing essential macro- and micronutrients. A preliminary experiment determined optimal soaking duration for seeds in water and nutrient solution. Field parameters assessed included seed germination, biomass accumulation, root development, photosynthetic activity, and yield. Megamix Seeds treatment increased photosynthetic activity from 16.9 to 20.4 thousand m2 × days/ha and improved yield by 65% (from 8.65 to 14.28 c/ha). These findings highlight the potential of nutrient priming to enhance lupine productivity and resilience in arid regions.
Food prices have continued to increase in recent years for various reasons. This study aims to investigate the simultaneous impact of global economic uncertainty, climate change, Covid-19, and the Russia-Ukraine war on food prices in Indonesia. The error correction model was used to examine data from July 2012 to December 2022. Global food prices, climate change, Covid-19, the Russia-Ukraine war, and consumer confidence raise food prices in the long run. In contrast, global energy prices, interest central bank rates, and real broad effective exchange rates have the reverse effect. According to the analysis, climate change has the worst effect on food prices in Indonesia.
